Police say ID thieves targeting 570 area code with text message scam

Thursday

Apr 25, 2013 at 8:56 PMApr 25, 2013 at 10:45 PM

State police at Honesdale are warning residents about a new cell phone scam that involves text alerts."An individual may receive a text message on their cell phone advising that their debit and bank cards from Pennstar Bank are being deactivated," said a police report.

The fake message then goes on to instruct people to call the number of the text message and give your banking information to reactivate your cards.

Police are warning people to not call the number back and not to give out any personal information.

Pennstar Banks website had the following fraud alert on their website:

"Fraudulent Text Messages Targeting Pennsylvania Area Market"

We have been alerted to some SMiShing (text messaging) attempts to Pennstar customers. The message of the text directs the customer to call (570)-445-5196 due to their debit card being deactivated.

The text message does reference Pennstar and seems to be targeting cellphone numbers in the area code of 570. These text messages are not legitimate and customers should discard them immediately.

As a reminder, the bank does not interact with customers via text message. Please use extreme caution when responding to unusual contact via text or telephone. Never give out personal or account information to an unauthorized communication such as text or automated phone messages.

If you received one of these calls and provided your ATM or Debit Card information, please contact Pennstar Bank immediately at 1-866-478-2772.